Riverby Inn : A 1930's Portrait of the Blanks Family in the Swannanoa Valley

Riverby Inn was a prominent two-story structure that dominated the Blue-Ridge encircled Swannanoa Valley from the early 1900’s until it was destroyed by fire in the 1950’s.  But Riverby Inn was much more than a place. Its story is the story of its family, the Frank and Jeffie Blanks clan. Like a Norman Rockwell painting with unspoiled goodness captured in rich colors and caricatures, the Blanks’ story is an uplifting reflection of human relationships, childhood adventure, and life in the 1930’s American South.

In January of 1964, the authors sent out letters to all surviving members of the Blanks Family. One by one as memories were jogged, they returned their contributions. From these, the authors were able to reconstruct one long summer of happy childhood memories. Through their story, Riverby Inn has opened once again for both family and guests.

Book your reservation for the entire summer. The welcome rug is out by the front door. Take a rocker on the front porch of the Riverby Inn and join the Blanks family.